Don’t Get Dry, Cracked Heels This Summer

Cracked heels are unsightly and painful, and they can become even more painful and more of a serious problem if they develop into fissures. And summer is the season for dry, cracked heels – especially here in New Zealand where most of us live in jandals or go barefoot a lot of the time.

If not properly treated, cracked heels can create a great deal of discomfort and can even start bleeding and develop into fissures.

Things to keep in mind this summer to prevent cracked feet:

Drink lots of water

Moisturise your feet every day (castor oil and petroleum jelly mixes are good heavy moisturisers)

Soak your feet daily in a tub of warm water with epsom salts, and add a few drops of tea tree oil too – it’s a great anti-fungal

Exfoliate any dry, dead skin cells with a pumice stone after you have soaked them

Always make sure your feet are thoroughly clean and dry

Only Use mild soaps

Don’t live in jandals or go barefoot too often

If your cracked heels become chronic, over the counter medicines can help – especially for those that need instant relief. But if your cracked heels develop into fissures, you may have to see a podiatrist. If you book an appointment with one of our Healthy Steps podiatrists in Auckland, they will be able to examine your cracked heels and prescribe the best treatment for you.

Make an Appointment

See a foot care specialist and make an appointment with one of our friendly Podiatrists